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Refer A Friend
And Get A FREE Class or Bucks in Your Account!
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Upcoming Events & Workshops
Click the links to sign-up online! Forward to a friend - it's always more fun to learn together.
Mendota Heights:
Especially for Beginners
Saturday, March 23, 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Learn about different styles of yoga, ask questions, and leave with a personalized class plan for FREE!
Aura Photos & Energy Readings
Friday, March 29, 2 - 7 p.m.
Have your aura photographed and interpreted in an individual session with intuitive Bobby Sullivan. Call 651.319.9525 to register.
AcuYoga - Points + Poses
Friday, March 29, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Yoga and acupucture workshop that will get you more deeply into your favorite poses and boost your immune system.
First Friday Kirtan
Friday, April 5, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Join the Wild Moon Bhaktas for our monthly kirtan. Sing, dance, immerse yourself in the sacred sanskrit chants. Donation of $5 - $15 recommended.
Energy Circle, Intuitive Reading, and Group Channel Event
Friday, April 12, 7 - 9 p.m.
Get messages from guides, angles, and loved ones that have passed over. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and recieve guidance on a variety of topics.
Yoga for a Healthy Back
Saturday, April 13, 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Do you have back pain? This workshop is for you. Maureen was inspired to create this workshop after using yoga to recover from debilitating back pain.
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Lakeville:
Saturday, March 23, 1 - 3 p.m.
Do you have back pain? Learn how yoga can help, how to be safe and make the most out of group yoga classes.
Friday, March 29, 6 - 6:45 p.m.
A group acupucture session designed especially to releive stress at the end of your week.
Fridays: April 5 - May 24, 6 - 7 p.m.
A special series of classes designed for men, taught by men. Make the yoga studio your new man cave, get ready for spring sports, tone your core, work on flexibility, and build strength.
Friday, April 5, 7 - 9 p.m.
Learn natural remedies that will balance your constitution and your health. Ease colds and flu, anxiety, PMS and other common health challenges.
Starts Tuesday April 9, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Lose weight, conquer cravings, and boost your metabolism by eating real food! Click the link above or call 651.699.3438 to enroll.
Saturday, April 20, 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Try different styles of yoga, ask questions, and get a personalized class plan for FREE!
Saturday, April 27, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Get your aura photographed and interpreted in an a private session by psychic Bobby Sullivan. Call 952.373.0055 to schedule. |
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Click to Explore
The Yoga Bible is a wonderful little book that contains a large number of poses. Its a wonderful reference for new and experienced students.
Here is an interesting interview with Krishanmacharia's grandson, Kausthub Desikachar, who has earned his place in his family's lineage of yoga. He and a couple of other yogis discuss hatha yoga, Patanjali, pranayama and a bunch of cool stuff.
Check out this video: The Benefits of Laughter Yoga |
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Student of the Month
I asked Stella, "What keeps you coming to yoga classes?" She responded without hesitation, "Yoga has changed my life!" She said that yoga has made her more quiet inside, and that through the hustle and bustle of being a business owner she is able to find that quiet peaceful inner resource. Then, she recounted a conversation with friends recently where she was sharing with them some of the many ways her yoga practice has positively effected her life. Everything seemed to come back to her yoga practice. Yoga makes life unfold more smoothly. Stella, known by some as Shelli, you are a vibrant example of how lessons learned on the mat can be taken into the world. We are blessed to have a goddess like you as part of our sangha (community) we love your energy, and seeing your smiling face! Namaste! |
Featured Healer: Dr. Gary Hulin 
Dr. Hulin successfully practiced dentistry for more than 12 years before he became involved in holistic health and alternative health care. Not only does Dr. Gary treat mechanical disorders of the spine and musculoskeletal system with the intention of affecting the nervous system and improving health, he helps his patients find balance and healing through holistic therapies like craniosacral therapy, myofascial release, applied kinesiology, sensitivity and allergy testings, and the use of supplements. Dr. Gary is more than just a regular chiropractor, he takes your whole being into account when guiding you to better health and wellness.
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Therapeutic Essential Oil of the Month: PEPPERMINT 
Used for thousands of years in China and Egypt, peppermint is known for its healing and soothing properties. As an essential oil, it is useful for its calming effects, to ease breathing during cold and allergy season, and as a digestive aid.
Peppermint oil can be used for its calming effect to relieve stress and tension. Just apply a few drops to the back of the neck for stress, or to the temples to relieve a headache.
During the cold and flu season, peppermint can really prove itself to you. It works well in reducing fever (just apply a few drops to the bottom of the feet). It is also great at opening and clearing sinus and respiratory congestion. It relieves headaches, diarrhea and nausea, and can bring a wide range of comforts to the misery of colds and flu.Try adding it to an aromatherapy diffuser for amazingly minty results.
Peppermint is a natural choice to add refreshment to any beverage while also aiding digestions. It is know to ease nausea and upset stomachs. It also freshens the breath and reduces the buildup of the bacteria that cause dental plaque and gum problems. Try a drop or a few in hot or cold water. |
 | | Marcia Appel practicing a side angle stretch on a beach in India, during Green Lotus's retreat to India February 2013 ...more pictures |
Where do you practice? |
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Greetings! Here Comes the Sun!
Spring makes us giddy. It makes us mad. Not mad as in angry, but mad in the British sense of the word: Mad for the sun. Mad for the outdoors. Mad for gardening. Mad for love and passion of people, pets, plans.  | | Like tulips, we stand anew in spring! |
Spring brings change. Your tresses bleach out in the sun. Your taste buds salivate for the fresh fruits and vegetables they've missed all winter. Your dog wants to jump into the pond even if he can't swim and roll in icky stuff.Your kids slip into their shorts and sandals while you can still see your breath in the morning. You don't care, because your attitude is changing from Grinch to Go for It. When they get on the bus, you secretly change into your own skimpier clothes, slide on your own flip-flops, and saunter into the yoga center that way. You text a photo to your kids so you can have spring in common. You think, I am going to get into shape. I am going to eat healthily. I am going to meet my more mellow Self. You think these things for all kinds of reasons. Because you don't want to try on a swimsuit just yet. Because your CSA is going to drop off a HUGE box every week. Because after all winter you feel stressed by work and a lack of light. You play the summer hits of your youth - loudly - and sing with abandon in your car. Other drivers who see you laugh with happy eyes instead of shaking their fists and glowering at you, as they might have in bleaker months. When you hear Summer in the City or San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair), you think, Wow, those were great songs - even if you are didn't grow up in the '60s. This is caused either by spring fever, indulgence for your elders, or the fact that you really do like these songs. Life seems simpler, more languid, safer and more dangerous at the same time. Your emotions connect with something primal and universal. You realize: Spring fever never ends even as you grow older. Thank goodness, and pass the lemonade. Marcia (writing), MB, Candy, and Christie P.S. Watch for our Sizzlin' Summer Challenge! All kinds of prizes, including state fair tickets. And this year, your packages will work for those special Sizzlin' pop-up classes. Details to come. Sizzlin' Challenge begins Memorial Day, May 28! |
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Our Third Center is Coming Soon!
Green Lotus's third location is opening in April! Like the other locations, it will be a special space of growth and wellness, integrating yoga and healing services, along with a wide variety of workshops and advanced yoga study opportunities. Our address is right next door to Ultimate Martial Arts: 5980 Neal Ave N. #103, Oak Park Heights, MN.
Please join us for a FREE intro to yoga workshop
Saturday, April 13, 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
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Ayurvedic Lentil Soup with Kale and Mushrooms: Ommmmmm! 
I was in a rush the other night, running behind with work and chores, I didn't have much time, but I still wanted something healthy and hearty for dinner. So, I made a quick batch of lentil soup, and it fit the bill perfectly. Lentils are a good source of vegitarian protein, and while they do contain all 9 essential amino acids, they are low in methionine. Kale has a bit though, so its presence helps to complete the protein. Kale is also high in minerals like calcium. The spices in this dish are inspired by Ayurvedic cooking - they are appropriate for the cool weather common in early spring, and those of us who run a bit cold constitutionally especially benefit from this soup. Its quick and easy and tasty. While the soup was cooking I made a batch of basmati rice too, a perfect side dish, and they took the same amount of time to cook, about 25 minutes, which is not much time for such a healthy meal.
Ayurvedic Lentil Soup with Kale and Mushrooms Recipe
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Menopause: Increase Zest, Decrease Pounds
Today, up to 70 million American women are menopausal. As a nutritionist, I have come to realize that most of these women have two major complaints: weight gain and mood swings. Both of these issues have a biochemical connection that can be helped with proper nutrition.
I've heard it a million times, "I can live with hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness, but I can't live with this belly fat." As I consult with menopausal women I often think, "She looks great, but maybe she should be concerned about osteoporosis and heart disease, cancer or diabetes." But typically, it is the pounds around the middle that stresses menopausal women out the most. It is true that up to 75 percent of women gain weight (against their will) during menopause.
The science of menopausal metabolism points to two major hormones, estrogen and progesterone. Many menopausal women have excess estrogen and a deficiency of progesterone within their bodies. Estrogen is the hormone that gives women curves, attractive breasts and youthful skin. However, too much estrogen causes too many curves-or you might say "bulges." Learn more about the nutrition connection to excess estrogen ...read more
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Restorative Yoga
Advanced Study & Teacher Training
April 12 - 14
Restorative yoga is a practice of letting go. Using props such as blankets, bolsters and blocks, yoga poses are fully supported, allowing the body and mind to let go. A restorative yoga class is a great option for people who have structural concerns, those new to yoga, or those recovering from injury or illness. With an abundance of modifications, Restorative yoga allows every body to reach of state of active relaxation, restoring the body and mind, engendering peace and calm, and enhancing receptivity. Green Lotus's Restorative Training is designed for two audiences:
- Yoga students who want to expand and deepen their personal practice or become more familiar with this style physically and energetically.
- Yoga teachers who are seeking to teach Restorative Yoga and/or earn continuing education credits.
Two Judith Lasater-accreditied teachers, Marcia and Randi, will lead the training, exploring each restorative pose in-depth, with an abundance of modifications and adjustments. You will learn to sequence a relaxing, meditative, and thoughtful class, as well as learn to tailor a private Restorative practice for a wide range of unique needs. You will gain tools to broaden your yoga repertoire, and you will learn to guide your students, and yourself, in the practice of letting go: Restorative yoga.... find out more |
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Pose of the Month: Virabhadrasana II
Also known as Warrior II Pose, this pose is named after a fierce incarnation of Shiva, described as having a thousand heads, a thousand eyes, a thousand feet, a thosand arms wielding a thousand clubs, and wearing a tiger skin: Grrrr! We practice Virabhadrasana not to honor violence against others, but to honor our personal fight against our own ego and ignorance (avidya), the ultimate source or our suffering... anything that obscures our awareness of our true nature which is love and light. If we break down the sanskrit word Virabhadrasana: "vira" means "hero" and "bhadra" means "auspicious"...what could be more auspicious than practicing to be a spiritual warrior, conquering our fear and ingnorance!?
To get into this pose:
- Take a giant step back with your left foot. Feet should be 3 1/2 to 4 feet apart. Back foot should be at 45 degree angle. Front foot facing forward. Heels should be aligned.
- Exhale and bend your front leg. The lower leg should be straight up and down. You may need to scoot your foot forward if your heel is not directly below your knee. Don't let knee drift to either side, keep knee in line with the middle toes. Ground the body down through the feet and legs.
- Push down and back through the outer edge of the back foot and heel. Back kneecap should be pulled up and thigh should be activated.
- Inhale arms up, palms facing down, reaching through the fingers. Radiate the body upwards toward the sky.
- Gaze over the front fingers.
- Work toward squaring your hips to the side of the mat.
- Unite the opposites: ground down to the earth through the lower body while reaching up to the heavens with the upper body, find your breath in the middle.
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You Can Treat Allergies with Acupuncture 
Finally, after a long cold winter; spring is just around the corner. Sunshine, rising temperatures, budding leaves, grass turning green, flowers in bloom - heaven for some, and misery for those with seasonal allergies. Millions of people suffer from seasonal allergies the sneezing, congestion, runny and/or itchy nose, itchy and watering eyes, etc. making this seasonal rebirth a time of dread.
Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to treat all allergies, not just seasonal. According to Chinese medicine theory, the signs and symptoms of allergies are related to imbalances in our channel and organ systems with our body. By clearing channels, supporting and strengthening the immune system; acupuncture can greatly reduce or eliminate your allergy symptoms as well as treating the root cause of allergic reactions.
Millions of dollars are spent yearly on allergy medications. Many of these medicines only provide short term relief of symptoms or cause adverse side effects such as drowsiness, restlessness, or insomnia. With long term use of some decongestants, allergy symptoms can actually become worse over time. Studies have shown that acupuncture significantly improves allergy symptoms and decreases or eliminates the need for allergy medicines. Often times, relief from allergic reactions can be felt during the treatment, while lying on the table.
Acupuncture is a drug free, safe, natural and effective way to treat allergies. Don't spend another spring and summer in a misery. The best time to treat allergies is now, before allergy season and/or before symptoms start; but acupuncture can also be effective after your symptoms arise. Make your acupuncture appointments for allergy relief and enjoy the beautiful outdoors this spring and summer.
Watch a video about acupuncture
Schedule an acupuncture appointment with Marnie |
Book Review: Cooking with Coconut Flour 
Yogini & Gluten-Free Foodie
I totally love coconut flour and I totally love this book! The books starts by describing the incredible healthful properties of coconut flour. Did you know that it has more than twice the fiber of wheat bran, and triple the fiber of oat bran? Neither did I! Coconut flour is also a good source of protein and it is a low-carb food too, so it ranks low on the glycemic index, making it a healthy alternative to wheat for not only those of us who have gluten issues, but for those of us that have blood sugar regulation issues. Coconut flour even tastes good!!! I know, this may seem too good to be true, gluten-free cooking can be full of disappointments, but I have tried a few recipes and they have turned out great.
Unlike some other gluten-free flours, coconut flour tastes good, not like powdery, graining, dry-yet-cakey-blah that results from other gluten free flours and flour blends. Some gluten free flour blends even use potato or tapioca starch - avoid these because they taste yucky and also because your body handles these starches much like table sugar, not good for your blood sugar or your pancreas.
I have tried cooking with coconut flour in the past and had some bad results. It absorbs more water than other flours, and handles differently. Trying to substitue coconut flour for other flours in recipes has been disasterous, but this book demystifies coconut flour, how to handle it, how to substitute it, providing both sweet and savory recipes that are easy to make and they taste great. Get this book! I bought my copy from Nutritional Weight and Wellness at our Center in Lakeville. They said they would be happy to ship it to you, all you have to do is call: 952-232-4990 |
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